Protection of Concrete Surface from the Canadian Standard, ICRI, and ACI Perspectives

Abstract

The Canadian standard CSA A23.1:19 on concrete materials and methods of concrete construction addresses the concrete surface treatment in chapter 7 placing, finishing, and curing concrete and in chapter 8 concrete with special performance requirements. The factors affecting the abrasion resistance are specified. The surface defects are named as honeycombing, sand streaking, lift lines, variations in color, soft areas, and large surface void. Special finish of architectural formed concrete must minimize texture and color variations. The standard does not mention specific organic coating material. The standard is clear on specific forbidden action that can affect the surface finish. The International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) has more specific guidelines on the types of product to apply. The sealers and coating recommenders are classified as high molecular weight methacrylic sealing compounds, low viscosity epoxy sealing compounds, silane and siloxane sealing compounds, and coating compounds for concrete. The causes of damage to concrete are explained. The American Concrete Institute has a number of committees addressing surface finishing. The ACI 546.3R-14 Guide to materials selection for concrete repair has tables for sealers and anti-carbonatation coating selection based on durability factors.